The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has intensified its fight against substance abuse after training 66 probation officers from Nairobi County in a bid to strengthen frontline intervention and rehabilitation efforts.

The intensive training programme focused on equipping probation officers with enhanced skills to identify signs and symptoms of drug and alcohol use among clients, many of whom are already within the justice system due to substance-related offences.

Beyond identification, the sessions also emphasised supervision strategies that promote rehabilitation and reintegration, alongside legal compliance. Nacada said the approach is intended to ensure probation services act as a pathway to recovery rather than purely punitive measures.

Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football

Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby

The training further aimed to strengthen coordination between the courts, health services, and regulatory authorities.

According to Nacada, improved collaboration among these key sectors is expected to create a more integrated support system for individuals struggling with addiction, ensuring they receive timely intervention, treatment, and legal oversight.

Speaking after the training, Nacada Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa said the initiative forms part of the government’s renewed national campaign against drug and substance abuse.

“As part of the ongoing renewed fight against drug abuse in the country as directed by the President, Nacada is revamping its strategies to ensure that all key stakeholders in the fight are sensitised as a means of ensuring that we all move together and protect the country from the harms of the menace,” said Dr. Omerikwa.

He noted that probation officers play a crucial role in the justice system due to their direct and regular interaction with offenders, often within community and home settings.

“Probation officers are on the front lines. They see clients regularly, often in their home environments. By equipping them with the right tools and knowledge, we transform them into agents of recovery, not just enforcers of court orders,” he added.

Nacada said the Nairobi training follows a similar programme conducted for senior judicial officers, signalling a broader, coordinated approach aimed at strengthening the justice system’s response to substance abuse.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to rolling out similar capacity-building programmes across other counties as part of a nationwide strategy to curb drug and alcohol abuse and promote recovery-focused interventions.